YEWALAND
The History, People & Culture
YEWALAND
The History, People & Culture
YEWALAND
The Land of Heritage, Opportunity, and Unity
Yewaland, located in the western axis of Ogun State, Nigeria, is home to a vibrant people known for their rich cultural traditions, entrepreneurial spirit, and historical significance. Formerly known as Egbado, the region adopted the name “Yewa” in 1995, inspired by the Yewa River which symbolizes unity among its diverse communities. Yewaland comprises Yewa South, Yewa North, Imeko-Afon, Ipokia, and Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Areas.
According to Oral Tradition and Historical Accounts given by renowned historians, the origin and development of settlements generally referred to as Yewaland (formerly Egbadoland) are linked to and greatly influenced first by the history of Ile-Ife and Oyo, the cradles of the Yoruba people; and later by the settlement and socio-political interests of her neighbours, especially the Egba and Dahomey.
The history of the Yewa people dates back to migrations between the 14th and 18th centuries from Ile-Ife, Oyo, and Ketu. These early settlers established communities along strategic trade routes to the coast. In the 18th and 19th centuries, further migrations occurred due to regional conflicts, leading to the formation of independent kingdoms and chiefdoms that make up modern Yewaland.
Originally known as Egbado, the people officially adopted the name “Yewa” in 1995 to assert a distinct identity separate from historical affiliations and to foster greater unity among the various groups in the region.
According to Oral Tradition and Historical Accounts given by renowned historians, the origin and development of settlements generally referred to as Yewaland (formerly Egbadoland) are linked to and greatly influenced first by the history of Ile-Ife and Oyo, the cradles of the Yoruba people; and later by the settlement and socio-political interests of her neighbours, especially the Egba and Dahomey.
The history of the Yewa people dates back to migrations between the 14th and 18th centuries from Ile-Ife, Oyo, and Ketu. These early settlers established communities along strategic trade routes to the coast. In the 18th and 19th centuries, further migrations occurred due to regional conflicts, leading to the formation of independent kingdoms and chiefdoms that make up modern Yewaland.
Originally known as Egbado, the people officially adopted the name “Yewa” in 1995 to assert a distinct identity separate from historical affiliations and to foster greater unity among the various groups in the region.
Our History
The history of the Yewa people dates back to migrations between the 14th and 18th centuries from Ile-Ife, Oyo, and Ketu.
Location & Geography
Yewaland is situated in the western part of Ogun State, bordering Lagos to the south, Oyo to the north, and the Republic of Benin to the west. It encompasses Yewa South, Yewa North, Imeko Afon, Ipokia LGAs & Ado-Odo area.
Culture & Traditions
Yewa culture is vibrant and diverse, characterized by rich traditions in music, dance, and art. Traditional music styles like Bolojo and Agasa are widely enjoyed.
Leadership
Yewa Traditional Council
The Yewa Traditional Council is the apex traditional institution representing the collective interests and traditional governance structure of Yewaland in Ogun State, Nigeria. The Council comprises the Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Kehinde Gbadewole Olugbenle, and all recognized traditional rulers across the Yewaland, serving as custodians of the customs and traditions of the Yewa people.
The Council is composed of royal fathers from the various towns and communities across Yewaland, working collectively to promote peace, unity, stability, and development throughout the region. Through regular consultations and engagements, the Council addresses issues of communal harmony, security, youth development, education, economic empowerment, environmental sustainability, and cultural preservation.
Yewa People Development Council
Yewa People Development Council is a non-profit organization whose purpose in general is to prevent social exclusion and promote social inclusion and community strengthening through supporting, developing and promoting UNITY within and among YEWA communities and YEWA based community managed organisations which focus on community development, social inclusion and community-focused services as well as promote effective development of Yewaland.
We are an umbrella body that registers, recognizes and directs all YEWA based social and developmental associations.
Address: 2 Community Bank Road, Ilaro-Yewa, Ogun State.
Phone: +2348037152480 | +234802290555